Friday, December 28, 2007

Earlier this month I had the great pleasure of touring the Kamaka Ukulele Factory in downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu. The Kamaka family has been making ukuleles in Hawaii since 1916, when the company was founded by Samuel Kaialiilii Kamaka. Today the factory is owned and operated by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Pictured on the left are Fred Kamaka Jr. and Fred Kamaka, Sr., the grandson and son of company founder Sam Kamaka. Free factory tours are available to the public five mornings a week. For more information about Kamaka Ukuleles and their weekly factory tours call 808-531-3165.

Friday, October 05, 2007

One of the most entertaining evenings I've had in Waikiki in a very long time was watching a taping of the new NightTime with Andy Bumatai TV show. Everyone is invited to be part of the show's studio audience, it's FREE, and it is one of the most fun, entertaining, and unusual nighttime experiences you can have in Waikiki. IMPORTANT NOTE: The NightTime With Andy Bumatai show has moved from the Hilton Hawaiian Village to the Showroom of the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach Hotel.[More About the Show]

Thursday, October 04, 2007

I just returned home from my trip to Honolulu for the 2007 Aloha Festivals Falsetto Contest. What a great event! On this trip I also *finally* found elusive marker #15 on the Waikiki Historic Trail. There are 23 sites on that Waikiki walking trail and 19 of them have 6 foot tall surfboard markers with historic photos and information. You would think something 6 feet tall would be very easy to find, but a few of those markers are surprisingly hard to spot unless you are viewing them directly from the front. Anyway I was SO HAPPY when I finally found that last marker a couple of days ago. Photos are coming soon of the 2007 Falsetto Contest, the Waikiki Historic Trail, the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden in Kaneohe, an architect's tour of Honolulu, Kakaako Waterfront Park, the Waimanalo Polo Field, the Sea Life Park Luau, and several other attractions and tours. I was a busy girl this week! Watch for information in the next few days about the great comedian Andy Bumatai's new nightly TV show and find out how you can watch that show being taped (almost live) in Waikiki. You won't want to miss it during your next trip to Honolulu!

Thursday, September 06, 2007

The National Geographic TV Channel will air a documentary on the construction of the Hawaii Superferry Thursday, September 6 and Saturday, September 8, 2007. Here is their description of the show: "The Hawaii Super Ferry is a commuter vessel complete with shops, restaurants and enough storage space for nearly 300 cars. Join the National Geographic Channel to find out how this super ferry will provide fast and affordable ferry service in Hawaii. To succeed, it must provide a comfortable ride while blazing at speeds of almost 50 mph and cutting through 6-foot-high swells. Follow a team of workers as they attempt to convert the innovative design into a functional ferry." PACIFIC DAYLIGHT TIME TV SCHEDULE:

Monday, July 30, 2007

The golden King Kamehameha statue in front of the Judiciary Building in historic downtown Honolulu is the most photographed attraction in Hawaii but many people do not know there is an identical statue inside the National Statuary Hall of the United States Capitol Building in Washington DC. There are three of these beautiful golden statues, one in Washington DC, one in Honolulu, and the original statue, which is located at King Kamehameha's birthplace in Kohala on the Big Island.

The golden King Kamehameha statue in front of the Judiciary Building in historic downtown Honolulu is the most photographed attraction in Hawaii but many people do not know there is an identical statue inside the National Statuary Hall of the United States Capitol Building in Washington DC. There are three of these beautiful golden statues, one in Washington DC, one in Honolulu, and the original statue, which is located at King Kamehameha's birthplace in Kohala on the Big Island.

Monday, July 23, 2007

Golfers can save money by playing at one of Hawaii's municipal golf courses instead of playing at one of the expensive resorts or country clubs. Golfing fees are higher for visitors then for residents at Hawaii's municipal golf courses, but even so, you will pay an average of $40 per round at these courses. That is very reasonable when compared to the $100-$200 charged by some of Hawaii's top golf resorts. The municipal courses typically have more residents then visitors and tee-times can fill up fast. Try to call at least a week in advance to book your game. The golf course pictured on the above right is the Ala Wai Municipal Golf Course in Waikiki on the island of Oahu.

Sunday, July 22, 2007

One of the newest adventure activities in Hawaii is zipline riding, the sport of soaring high above the ground while your body is secured in a harness and attached to an overhead cable. There are several zipline tour operators in Hawaii and each offers a diffent mix of terrain and amenities. Some of Hawaii's zipline tours are part of multi-sport adventures that combine zipline tours with activities such as kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, jeep tours, and swimming. The photo on the left was taken on one of the Outfitter's Kauai zipline adventures.

Sunday, July 08, 2007

The Kapahulu Groin is a pedestrian walkway that extends into the ocean from Queen's Surf Beach on the Diamond Head end of Waikiki. It is an extension of a storm drain that runs under Kapahulu Avenue and it was built in 1951 on the spot where the Old Kuekaunahi Stream use to flow into the sea after crossing the Waikiki Swamp. The ocean end of the Kapahulu Groin is a wonderful place to take panoramic photos of Waikiki but watch out for the huge splashes of water some of the local kids delight in surprising you with by jumping off the walkway into the sea (an activity that is dangerous and supposedly strictly forbidden).

Friday, July 06, 2007

A proposed $14 million improvement to Waikiki's Kapiolani Park includes widening walkways, placing utility lines underground, replacing the softball field near the Dillingham Fountain with a tree-shaded picnic area, and creating a new and more visible entrance to the Honolulu Zoo.

Thursday, June 14, 2007

The launch of Hawaii's new inter-island ferry service has been delayed until later this summer so the high speed vessel can complete the process of becoming certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. The ferry began its 7600 mile voyage from a Mobile Alabama shipyard to Hawaii this morning. It will pass through the Panama Canal and stop for refueling in Los Angeles before continuing on to Honolulu. The new expected launch date for the Hawaii Superferry Service will be announced soon.

The launch of Hawaii's new inter-island ferry service has been delayed until later this summer so the high speed vessel can complete the process of becoming certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. The ferry began its 7600 mile voyage from a Mobile Alabama shipyard to Hawaii this morning. It will pass through the Panama Canal and stop for refueling in Los Angeles before continuing on to Honolulu. The new expected launch date for the Hawaii Superferry Service will be announced soon.

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

In the Fall of 2007 British film maker Marc Forby will begin filming a movie about the life of Hawaiian Princess Kaiulani who died at the age of 23 after witnessing the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and attempting restore it by speaking to the congress and president of the United States. The princess as a child will be played by 12 year old Kaimana Paaluhi of Oahu and the princess as an adult will be played by former Hawaii resident Qorianka Kilcher, of Peruvian descent, who played Pocahontas opposite Colin Farrell in the 2005 movie "The New World". Forby's goal is to produce a historically accurate film that will also be compelling enough to attract a large audience.

Thursday, May 31, 2007

Today Alaska Airlines announced their plan to add year-round flights between Seattle and Oahu and Seattle and Kauai in October of 2007. They also plan to add seasonal flights between Anchorage Alaska and Honolulu in December of 2007. Introductory one-way fares between $110 and $160 are available now on the Alaska Airlines Web site. For more information see Alaska Airlines Adds Service to Hawaii

Today Alaska Airlines announced their plan to add year-round flights between Seattle and Oahu and Seattle and Kauai in October of 2007. They also plan to add seasonal flights between Anchorage Alaska and Honolulu in December of 2007. Introductory one-way fares between $110 and $160 are available now on the Alaska Airlines Web site. For more information see Alaska Airlines Adds Service to Hawaii

Sunday, May 27, 2007

Memorial Day Weekend 2007 events in Hawaii include separate ceremonies hosted by the Governor of Hawaii and the Mayor of Honolulu, a "Rolling Thunder" motorcycle club ceremony, a floating of lanterns in Ala Moana Park and many more events honoring those who died or became missing in action while performing military service.

Memorial Day Weekend events in Hawaii will include separate ceremonies hosted by the Governor of Hawaii and the Mayor of Honolulu, a "Rolling Thunder" motorcycle club ceremony, a floating of lanterns in Ala Moana Park and many more events honoring those who died or became missing in action while performing military service.

Saturday, May 19, 2007

The Haleakala Volcano Photo Gallery features pictures of hiking trails inside Haleakala National Park plus photos of cycling down the mountain, the exotic silversword plant, the Science City observatories at Haleakala's summit, and other pictures of the upper and coastal areas of Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui.

The Haleakala Volcano Photo Gallery features pictures of hiking trails inside Haleakala National Park plus photos of cycling down the mountain, the exotic silversword plant, the Science City observatories at Haleakala's summit, and other pictures of the upper and coastal areas of Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui.

The geological formation pictured on the left is the Iao Needle, a dramatic lava rock projection at the end of a ridge inside Iao Valley State Park on the west side of the island of Maui. There is a short trail in the park that leads to a windy overlook where visitors can get good views the Iao Needle. The best views are usually in the morning because the formation is often hidden behind clouds. Other attractions in Iao Valley State Park include the Iao Valley itself and the multi-ethnic Kepaniwai Park Heritage Gardens.

The geological formation pictured on the left is the Iao Needle, a dramatic lava rock projection at the end of a ridge inside Iao Valley State Park on the west side of the island of Maui. There is a short trail in the park that leads to a windy overlook where visitors can get good views the Iao Needle. The best views are usually in the morning because the formation is often hidden behind clouds. Other attractions in Iao Valley State Park include the Iao Valley itself and the multi-ethnic Kepaniwai Park Heritage Gardens.

Friday, May 18, 2007

The dining room in the historic, bright pink, Moroccan style, Royal Hawaiian Hotel is called the Surf Room Restaurant. It has an outdoor patio area covered with distinctive pink and white striped tenting (pictured on the right) and a more formal indoor area with teak pillars, pink tablecloths, and rattan furniture. Breakfast lunch and dinner are served in the Surf Room, and there are also special meals such as Sunday brunch, a Friday seafood buffet, and holiday dinners. Most of the tables in the Surf Room have beautiful views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater.

The dining room in the historic, bright pink, Moroccan style, Royal Hawaiian Hotel is called the Surf Room Restaurant. It has an outdoor patio area covered with distinctive pink and white striped tenting and a more formal indoor area with teak pillars, pink tablecloths, and rattan furniture. Breakfast lunch and dinner are served in the Surf Room, and there are also special meals such as Sunday brunch, a Friday seafood buffet, and holiday dinners. Most of the tables in the Surf Room have beautiful views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater.

Thursday, May 17, 2007

This week the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts announced the nominees for the 2007 Na Hoku Hanohano Music Awards. Two new categories have been added this year including Best Music Video DVD and Best R&B or Hip Hop Album. Albums by three artists received a total of seven nominations each. Those artists are Amy Hanaialii Gilliom, Na Palapalai, and Kealii Reichel. The 30th annual Na Hoku Hanohano Awards Ceremony will take place on June 20, 2007 at the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu. The theme of this year's event is Alohihohi Ka Lei Hoku - Celebrating 30 Years: The Stars of Distinction.

The much anticipated Wyland Waikiki Hotel has finally opened after several delays and changes in ownership. Artist Robert Wyland purchased the former Waikiki Surf Hotel in 2005 with the intention of upgrading it from a budget family hotel to an upscale boutique hotel featuring his artwork. At one point it was expected the hotel would be operated by Hilton under its Doubletree brand but last month the management contract was awarded to Outrigger. The multi-million dollar renovations were completed and the hotel finally opened in April of 2007. Special rates are being offered to the first hotel guests that include a reduced room rate and breakfast at the International House of Pancakes Restaurant across the street from the hotel.

The much anticipated Wyland Waikiki Hotel has finally opened after several delays and changes in ownership. Artist Robert Wyland purchased the former Waikiki Surf Hotel in 2005 with the intention of upgrading it from a budget family hotel to an upscale boutique hotel featuring his artwork. At one point it was expected the hotel would be operated by Hilton under its Doubletree brand but last month the management contract was awarded to Outrigger. The multi-million dollar renovations were completed and the hotel finally opened in April of 2007. Special rates are being offered to the first hotel guests that include a reduced room rate and breakfast at the International House of Pancakes Restaurant across the street from the hotel.

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

The beautiful Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii is located on a hillside above the town of Hilo on the east side of the Big Island of Hawaii. Exhibits in the center tell the story of the Maunakea Volcano as it relates to astronomy and Hawaiian culture. The $28 million, 40,000 square foot center opened in February of 2006 and it is located on the nine acre campus of the University of Hawaii at Hilo. It has an exhibit hall, planetarium shows, a cafe, a gift shop, and rooms where special events can be held.

The beautiful Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii is located on a hillside above the town of Hilo on the east side of the Big Island of Hawaii. Exhibits in the center tell the story of the Maunakea Volcano as it relates to astronomy and Hawaiian culture. The $28 million, 40,000 square foot center opened in February of 2006 and it is located on the nine acre campus of the University of Hawaii at Hilo. It has an exhibit hall, planetarium shows, a cafe, a gift shop, and rooms where special events can be held.

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

This week the Honolulu City Council will vote on a resolution to rename the outdoor amphitheater in Kapiolani Park the "Don Ho Waikiki Shell". Honolulu city facilities may be named after individuals who have had a significant association with the facility, who have achieved national recognition, or who have been honored for military service. Don Ho died on April 14, 2007 at the age of 76. He was an internationally famous professional entertainer for 43 years and he served in the United States Air Force so he meets all three criteria. The vote will take place on Thursday, May 17, 2007.

This week the Honolulu City Council will vote on a resolution to rename the Waikiki Shell outdoor amphitheater in Kapiolani Park the "Don Ho Waikiki Shell". Honolulu city facilities may be named after individuals who have had a significant association with the facility, who have achieved national recognition, or who have been honored for military service. Don Ho died on April 14, 2007 at the age of 76. He was an internationally famous professional entertainer for 43 years and he served in the United States Air Force so he meets all three criteria. The vote will take place on Thursday, May 17, 2007.

This week the United States Fish and Wildlife Service is holding a public meeting to discuss the possibility of adding 55, 179, or 202 acres to the already 203 acre Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on the north coast of Kauai. The U.S. Congress approved expanding the refuge in 2004 but there has been some resistance by locals who fear access to beaches and other recreational areas in the refuge will be restricted. A decision is expected to be made in July of 2007.

Sunday, May 13, 2007

The Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park in West Oahu will open its new $1 million, 18 hole, miniature golf course on May 26, 2007, just in time attfor Memorial Day Weekend. The new golf course is called Island Adventure Golf and it has four areas connected by waterways. Each of those areas represents a different Hawaii environment, including the beach, the reef, a tropical valley, and a volcano. This new golf course is part of Hawaiian Waters' plan to offer more attractions and events for teenagers and adults over the next few years.

The Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park in West Oahu will open its new $1 million, 18 hole, miniature golf course on May 26, 2007, just in time for Memorial Day Weekend. The new golf course is called Island Adventure Golf and it has four areas connected by waterways. Each of those areas represents a different Hawaii environment, including the beach, the reef, a tropical valley, and a volcano. This new golf course is part of Hawaiian Waters' plan to offer more attractions and events for teenagers and adults over the next few years.

On April 23, 2007 Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle selected the final design for the new Hawaii quarter coin. That coin will be minted for ten weeks beginning in November of 2008. The Hawaii quarter is the last coin to be minted in the United States Treasury Department's "50 States Commemorative Coins" program. Five new quarter coins have been released each year since the program began in 1999 and each has a theme based on one of the fifty states. The Hawaii quarter is the last coin in the series.

On April 23, 2007 Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle selected the final design for the new Hawaii quarter coin. That coin will be minted for ten weeks beginning in November of 2008. The Hawaii quarter is the last coin to be minted in the United States Treasury Department's "50 States Commemorative Coins" program. Five new quarter coins have been released each year since the program began in 1999 and each has a theme based on one of the fifty states. The Hawaii quarter is the last coin in the series.

Friday, May 11, 2007

One of Hawaii's most popular snorkeling destinations is Hanauma Bay Underwater Nature Preserve on the south shore of the island of Oahu. Today that beach was closed to swimmers and snorkelers because of a large influx of stinging box jellyfish. Waikiki Beach was also strewn with more then 600 jellyfish this morning. Box jellyfish can be a hazard on Hawaii's beaches but their appearance is very predictable. They can be expected once a month, eight to twelve days after the full moon.

One of Hawaii's most popular snorkeling destinations is Hanauma Bay Underwater Nature Preserve on the south shore of the island of Oahu. Today that beach was closed to swimmers and snorkelers because of a large influx of stinging box jellyfish. Waikiki Beach was also strewn with more then 600 jellyfish this morning. Box jellyfish can be a hazard on Hawaii's beaches but their appearance is very predictable. They can be expected once a month, eight to twelve days after the full moon.

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Diners at the beachfront Shore Bird Restaurant in Waikiki receive their entrees raw and they are invited to cook their own meal on the restaurant's giant community grill. Children and many adults love barbecuing their own dinner but if that is not your thing you can have your dinner prepared for you. The Shore Bird Restaurant and Beach Bar is located on the lobby level of the Outrigger Reef on the Beach Hotel. The best time to eat there is before the sun goes down when the restaurant has beautiful views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater.

Diners at the beachfront Shore Bird Restaurant in Waikiki receive their entrees raw and they are invited to cook their own meal on the restaurant's giant community grill. Children and many adults love barbecuing their own dinner but if that is not your thing you can have your dinner prepared for you. The Shore Bird Restaurant and Beach Bar is located on the lobby level of the Outrigger Reef on the Beach Hotel. The best time to eat there is before the sun goes down when the restaurant has beautiful views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater.

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

Special 2007 Mother's Day Events in Hawaii include Hawaiian music breakfast, brunch, and dinner concerts on two different islands, a historic walking tour of the Manoa Valley, two orchid shows, a brunch cruise and a dinner cruise in Honolulu Harbor, and special Mother's Day brunches, lunches, and dinners at many top restaurants and resorts on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big island of Hawaii. (photo credit: Sri Maiava Rusden)

Special 2007 Mother's Day Events in Hawaii include Hawaiian music breakfast, brunch, and dinner concerts on two different islands, a historic walking tour of the Manoa Valley, two orchid shows, a brunch cruise and a dinner cruise in Honolulu Harbor, and special Mother's Day brunches, lunches, and dinners at many top restaurants and resorts on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big island of Hawaii. (photo credit: Sri Maiava Rusden)

College professor Peller Marion from San Rafael California felt something grab her leg when she was snorkeling in 10 to 15 feet of water off of Keawakapu Beach near Kehei on the island of Maui May 7, 2007. It took her about 5 minutes to swim 100 yards back to shore where she found she had a deep gash in her foot, another wound in her leg, and several fractures. An hour earlier a surfer about 1.5 miles away reported his board had been bumped by what appeared to be a large tiger shark, prompting the county to close Kamaole II Beach. After the woman was bitten the beach closure was expanded to a four mile stretch of coast.

College professor Peller Marion from San Rafael California felt something grab her leg when she was snorkeling in 10 to 15 feet of water off of Keawakapu Beach near Kehei on the island of Maui May 7, 2007. It took her about 5 minutes to swim 100 yards back to shore where she found she had a deep gash in her foot, another wound in her leg, and several fractures. An hour earlier a surfer about 1.5 miles away reported his board had been bumped by what appeared to be a large tiger shark, prompting the county to close Kamaole II Beach. After the woman was bitten the beach closure was expanded to a four mile stretch of coast.

Monday, May 07, 2007

The new Hawaii Superferry is still expected to begin providing inter-island transportation between Oahu, Maui, and Kauai in July of 2007. For more information about tickets, schedules, and when the first vessel will arrive in Hawaii see:

The new Hawaii Superferry is still expected to begin providing inter-island transportation between Oahu, Maui, and Kauai in July of 2007. For more information about tickets, schedules, and when the first vessel will arrive in Hawaii see:

The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail on the southeast coast of Oahu is an easy trail that can be enjoyed by all levels of hikers. The trail is a little more then a mile in each direction and while it is steep in some places, it is fully paved, making it a relatively easy hike. There are magnificent views of windward Oahu and two offshore islands from the observation deck at the top of the trail. On a clear day you can see the island of Molokai off in the distance and during the winter season you will often see whales passing by.

The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail on the southeast coast of Oahu is an easy trail that can be enjoyed by all levels of hikers. The trail is a little more then a mile in each direction and while it is steep in some places, it is fully paved, making it a relatively easy hike. There are magnificent views of windward Oahu and two offshore islands from the observation deck at the top of the trail. On a clear day you can see the island of Molokai off in the distance and during the winter season you will often see whales passing by.

Sunday, May 06, 2007

The Dole Pineapple Plantation in Central Oahu opened in 1950 as a fruit stand next to a pineapple field. It has been open to the public as a visitor attraction since 1989. Things to see and do at the Dole Plantation include a diesel train ride through the plantation grounds, a narrated walking tour, a giant, pineapple shaped, walk-through maze, a pineapple garden, a large gift shop, and a cafe.

The Dole Pineapple Plantation in Central Oahu opened in 1950 as a fruit stand next to a pineapple field. It has been open to the public as a visitor attraction since 1989. Things to see and do at the Dole Plantation include a diesel train ride through the plantation grounds, a narrated walking tour, a giant, pineapple shaped, walk-through maze, a pineapple garden, a large gift shop, and a cafe.

Saturday, May 05, 2007

May 5th is a Mexican holiday called Cinco de Mayo which marks the victory of Mexico's army over French invaders at the Battle of Puebla in 1861. There will be several including a block party in downtown Honolulu, a festival at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, a unique adventure game and pub crawl presented by Ravenchase Adventures, and a swimming competition and Mexican fiesta on the Big island of Hawaii. Often people celebrate Cinco de Mayo by dining on mexican food and drinking margueritas and there are many opportunities for this in Hawaii including quite a few Mexican Restaurants on the Island of Oahu.

May 5th is a Mexican holiday called Cinco de Mayo which marks the victory of Mexico's army over French invaders at the Battle of Puebla in 1861. There will be several Cinco de Mayo Celebrations in Hawaii including a block party in downtown Honolulu, a festival at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, a unique adventure game and pub crawl presented by Ravenchase Adventures, and a swimming competition and Mexican fiesta on the Big island of Hawaii. Often people celebrate Cinco de Mayo by dining on mexican food and drinking margueritas and there are many opportunities for this in Hawaii including quite a few Mexican Restaurants on the Island of Oahu.

It's Chili In Hawaii is a wonderful and friendly little shop on South King Street in the Moiliili district of Honolulu featuring made-in-Hawaii hot sauces, cooking sauces, salad dressings, candies, cookies, chips, sea salt, jams, and jellies. You can try many items out before you buy at the Chili in Hawaii Hot Sauce Tasting Bar.

It's Chili In Hawaii is a wonderful and friendly little shop on South King Street in the Moiliili district of Honolulu featuring made-in-Hawaii hot sauces, cooking sauces, salad dressings, candies, cookies, chips, sea salt, jams, and jellies. You can try many items out before you buy at the Chili in Hawaii Hot Sauce Tasting Bar.

A lei is a garland of flowers or other natural materials that is worn around the neck to celebrate graduations, weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions. It is also traditional to present a lei and a kiss to a person who is arriving in Hawaii or leaving. Here are step-by-step instructions for making your own single strand, fresh flower Hawaiian lei. Includes a list of required materials and detailed lei making instructions.

A lei is a garland of flowers or other natural materials that is worn around the neck to celebrate graduations, weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions. It is also traditional to present a lei and a kiss to a person who is arriving in Hawaii or leaving. Here are step-by-step instructions for making your own single strand, fresh flower Hawaiian lei. Includes a list of required materials and detailed lei making instructions.

Thursday, May 03, 2007

The Norwegian Cruise Line's luxurious "Pride of Hawaii" cruise ship will be renamed the "Norwegian Jade" and it will get a casino and a new paint job before it moves to Europe to join the "Norwegian Gem" and "Norwegian Jewel". If the Hawaii cruise market becomes stronger in the future the ship might be relocated back to Hawaii to rejoin the "Pride of Aloha" and the "Pride of America". Norwegian Cruise Lines is the only company offering multiple-day cruises that only stop in the Hawaiian Islands. All other cruise lines must stop in a foreign port before or after docking in Hawaii. That is the reason cruises from the west coast of the United States usually stop in Canada or Mexico before or after visiting Hawaii.

The Norwegian Cruise Line's luxurious "Pride of Hawaii" cruise ship will be renamed the "Norwegian Jade" and it will get a casino and a new paint job before it moves to Europe to join the "Norwegian Gem" and "Norwegian Jewel". If the Hawaii cruise market becomes stronger in the future the ship might be relocated back to Hawaii to rejoin the "Pride of Aloha" and the "Pride of America". Norwegian Cruise Lines is the only company offering multiple-day cruises that only stop in the Hawaiian Islands. All other cruise lines must stop in a foreign port before or after docking in Hawaii. That is the reason cruises from the west coast of the United States usually stop in Canada or Mexico before or after visiting Hawaii.

The city of Honolulu has arranged a shuttle service to transport people from Kapiolani Community College on Saturday, May 5, 2007 for the Don Ho Memorial Service at Queen's Surf Beach in Waikiki. From 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. 30 to 50 canoes will participate in a ceremony to scatter Don Ho's ashes in front of the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m. there will be VIP speakers and performances by some of Hawaii's top musicians and performers At Queen's Surf Beach. Don Ho's daughter Hoku Ho will finish the evening by singing one of his most famous songs, "I'll Remember You". Two Honolulu TV stations - KGMB and KHNL - will broadcast parts of the service live.

The city of Honolulu has arranged a shuttle service to transport people from Kapiolani Community College on Saturday, May 5, 2007 for the Don Ho Memorial Service at Queen's Surf Beach in Waikiki. From 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. 30 to 50 canoes will participate in a ceremony to scatter Don Ho's ashes in front of the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m. there will be VIP speakers and performances by some of Hawaii's top musicians and performers At Queen's Surf Beach. Don Ho's daughter Hoku Ho will finish the evening by singing one of his most famous songs, "I'll Remember You". Two Honolulu TV stations - KGMB and KHNL - will broadcast parts of the service live. For a schedule of speakers and performers see the May 3 Honolulu Advertiser article "Shuttle Readied for Ho Event".

Tuesday, May 01, 2007

The Aina Moana area of Ala Moana Beach Park is commonly known as Magic Island and it is located on the island of Oahu between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu just west of the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor. It is a 30 acre park on a peninsula of land with two white sandy beaches, a protected swimming lagoon, wide grassy areas, picnic tables, trails for cycling and inline skating, a rocky breakwater, and beautiful views of Waikiki and Honolulu.

The Aina Moana area of Ala Moana Beach Park is commonly known as Magic Island and it is located on the island of Oahu between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu just west of the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor. It is a 30 acre park on a peninsula of land with two white sandy beaches, a protected swimming lagoon, wide grassy areas, picnic tables, trails for cycling and inline skating, a rocky breakwater, and beautiful views of Waikiki and Honolulu.

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Did you know the main attraction at Waikiki's Kapiolani Park use to be a huge horse racing track with grandstand seating? In the late 1800's and early 1900's horse racing was a favorite sport of Hawaiian royalty, rich landowners, and plantation workers. At one time there were horse racing tracks on several of the islands but the sport died out in Hawaii by the 1950's, in part because locals in Hawaii have a long history of resisting any form of legalized gambling.

Did you know the main attraction at Waikiki's Kapiolani Park use to be a huge horse racing track with grandstand seating? In the late 1800's and early 1900's horse racing was a favorite sport of Hawaiian royalty, rich landowners, and plantation workers. At one time there were horse racing tracks on several of the islands but the sport died out in Hawaii by the 1950's, in part because locals in Hawaii have a long history of resisting any form of legalized gambling.

May 1 is Lei Day in Hawaii and almost everybody in the islands will be wearing a flower lei that day, from little kids in school to executives at Hawaii's top corporations. On May 1 there will be Lei Day celebrations in Kapiolani Park on the island of Oahu, in Hilo on the Big Island, and in Lihue on the island of Kauai. The Brothers Cazimero will perform their annual Lei Day Concert at the Waikiki Shell on Oahu on May 1 and at the Maui Arts Center in Kahului on Mau 2.

On Saturday, May 5 there will be a public memorial service for Hawaii entertainer Don Ho who died on April 14, 2007. At 4:30 p.m. outrigger canoes will launch from the beach in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel to scatter his ashes in the ocean. From 6 to 8 p.m. there will be a musical tribute and a celebration of Don Ho's life at Queen's Surf Beach across the street from the Honolulu Zoo. A video of the scattering of Don Ho's ashes will be shown on a a large outdoor screen and performers will include Nina Kealiiwahamana, Melveen Leed, Willie K, the Brothers Cazimero, Society of Seven Las Vegas, Marlene Sai, Iva Kinimaka, Jimmy Borges and Matt Catingub. Up to 25,000 people are expected to attend.

Saturday, April 14, 2007

I am very sad to report that Hawaii's legendary entertainer Don Ho died of heart failure at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 14, 2007 at Queens Medical Center in Honolulu. Don Ho's talent and self-effacing sense of humor will be missed by Hawaii residents and visitors from all over the world. Farewell to a great entertainer. My condolences to his family.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) is moving their 2466 passenger "Pride of Hawaii" cruise ship from Hawaii to Europe in February of 2008 because their inter-island Hawaii cruises have not been profitable. NCL's other two Hawaii based cruise ships, the "Pride of Aloha" and the "Pride of America" will remain in Hawaii. When those two ships have achieved profitability NCL expects to move the "Pride of Hawaii" back to the islands. For more information see the April 11, 2007 Honolulu Advertiser article.

Saturday, April 07, 2007

As you drive down Ala Moana Boulevard on the island of Oahu, between Ala Moana Park and Honolulu Harbor, you will pass an old blue stone building with a green tile roof on the harbor side of the street. That beautiful building is the Kakaako Pumping Station, a wastewater disposal facility that was built in 1900, and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Saint Patrick's Day events in Hawaii this weekend include a parade in Waikiki, a block party in downtown Honolulu, Irish pub celebrations, shopping center celebrations, special dinners, and a corn beef musubi eating contest.

Sunday, March 11, 2007

One person was killed and three were seriously injured in a helicopter crash yesterday on the island of Kauai. Last Thursday another helicopter crashed on Kauai, that time killing three people. Those fatal crashes happened only a month after the Federal Aviation Administration announced plans to regulate the air tour industry more strictly by expanding their National Air Tour Safety Standards and requiring helicopter tour operators to comply with them. Would I feel safe taking a helicopter tour in Hawaii? Yes, I would, but I would definitely do my homework first. Don't shop by price alone. Take some time to learn about the history and safety record of the tour operator you select.

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

This summer Hawaiian Airlines will increase the number of flights between Los Angeles and Honolulu to three per day and they will increase the number of Seattle/Honolulu flights from six per week to two per day. Hawaiian will also add a third weekly flight between American Samoa and Honolulu. For more information see the February 26, 2007 Hawaiian Airlines Press Release.

This weekend the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts will present Lifetime Achievement Na Hoku Hanohano Awards to five major contributors to Hawaii's music scene. Recipients of the awards are saxaphonist Gabe Baltazar, singer Loyal Gardner who died in 2001, jazz pianist Rene Paulo, the Surfers, and showroom entertainers the Society of Seven. The awards will be given out Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at a luncheon at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Tickets are $70 to $100 with corporate tables available for $1000. Aloha attire is recommended. For more information call 808-593-9424.

The new inter-island Hawaii Superferry is scheduled to launch in July of 2007 but thousands of petitioners are pushing state lawmakers to prevent the start of the service, saying the SuperFerry should never have been approved without the normally required environmental impact study. For more information see the March 5, 2007 Honolulu Star Bulletin article.

Saturday, March 03, 2007

The organizers of the Hawaii Aloha Festivals have released a tentative schedule of 2007 Aloha Festival events on six different Hawaiian islands. Applications for members of the 2007 royal court are also available now. Pictured on the right are award winning singer Raiatea Helm and Hawaiian songbird Karen Keawehawaii performing at a concert after the 2006 Aloha Festivals Male Falsetto Singing Contest at the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki.